Ultimate Guide to Crab Island Destin Florida

This guide was originally published on August 9, 2019, and updated on March 6, 2025, to ensure accuracy, confirm recommended businesses are still in operation, improve clarity, and add FAQs. This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Visiting Crab Island in Destin Florida

We’ve made it a tradition to visit Florida every summer since 2016—it’s actually where Kevin and I got married on the beach during our very first trip!

After exploring different areas, we all agreed that Destin and the Emerald Coast were our favorites. The super soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and minimal seaweed make it a dream destination for a family beach trip.

In 2018, we didn’t make it to Crab Island, and it was our biggest vacation regret that year.

We vowed to do it on our next trip—and in 2019, we finally made it happen! We went with another family we traveled with, making it a group of 13 people, including 9 kids between the ages of 11 and 18.

Crab Island ended up being the perfect spot for our whole crew, and I can’t wait to share everything we learned!

What is Crab Island? Why is it so Popular?

If you’ve never been to Crab Island in Destin, Florida, you might picture a tropical island with sandy shores—but that’s not quite the case! Despite its name, Crab Island isn’t actually an island. It’s a shallow, underwater sandbar formed by shifting tides over the years.

This unique spot has become one of Destin’s top attractions, drawing in boaters, swimmers, and adventure-seekers who want to experience crystal-clear waters, floating restaurants, and endless fun right in the middle of the bay.

Whether you’re looking to relax on a float, snorkel with marine life, or grab a bite from a floating food vendor, Crab Island is a must-visit on the Emerald Coast.

Where is Crab Island? How to Get There

Crab Island is located in Destin, Florida, just north of The Marler Bridge—the half-mile bridge connecting Okaloosa Island to Destin.

If you’ve ever driven across the bridge and noticed dozens of boats anchored in clear turquoise waters, you were looking at Crab Island!

From the bridge, you can see as far as the East Pass into the Gulf of Mexico in one direction. In the other direction you can see across Crab Island to the Choctawhatchee Bay, and the emerald green waters in between

This submerged sandbar sits in Choctawhatchee Bay, just south of the Destin Harbor. It’s only accessible by water, meaning you’ll need to rent a boat, take a shuttle, or hop on a jet ski to get there. (Don’t worry—we’ll break down the best ways to get to Crab Island in the next section!).

Map of Crab Island in Destin Florida

Want to see it on a map? Check out Crab Island’s location here.

How to Get to Crab Island

Since Crab Island is only accessible by water, you’ll need to rent a boat, take a shuttle, or use a personal watercraft to get there. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to reach Crab Island and how to choose the right one for your trip:

Rent a Boat (Most Popular Option)

Renting a pontoon boat is the most common way to visit Crab Island, especially for groups and families. It gives you flexibility to arrive and leave on your own schedule, bring your own food, and have a comfortable place to relax.

• Best for: Large groups, families, or those wanting a private experience.
• Katie’s Tip: If you’re not comfortable driving, many rental companies offer captains for hire.

If you’re planning a trip to Crab Island for families, renting a boat is the best way to keep everyone together and comfortable. We had two families and 13 people total, so for us, renting a double-decker pontoon boat and splitting the cost was the best deal.

It gave us tons of space, shade, a place to store our food, and (most importantly) waterslides that both the kids and adults loved!

Katie’s Tip: Shop around before booking your boat rental! We rented ours in Ft. Walton, which saved us money compared to booking closer to Crab Island. It did add a 20-minute boat ride each way, but everyone loved the extra time on the water—and we even saw dolphins on the way!

Take the Crab Island Shuttle

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and stress-free option that doesn’t involve renting your own boat, the Crab Island Shuttle Boat is a convenient alternative. This round-trip ferry service drops you off and picks you up at a designated time.

• Best for: Those who want a hassle-free trip without driving a boat.
• Katie’s Tip: Book early—shuttles fill up fast during peak season!

Kayak or Paddleboard

For a more active experience, some visitors paddle to Crab Island using a kayak or paddleboard. However, this is only recommended for experienced paddlers due to the strong currents and boat traffic.

• Best for: Strong paddlers looking for a budget-friendly adventure.
• Katie’s Tip: Stick close to the shoreline to avoid boat traffic.

Jet Ski

Jet skiing to Crab Island is a blast and perfect if you’re looking for an adventure, but keep in mind that you’ll encounter no-wake zones throughout the area. Before heading out, most rental companies will give you a quick lesson on local rules and safety precautions.

• Best for: Couples or small groups looking for a thrill ride.
• Pro Tip: Check age requirements—some rentals require drivers to be at least 21 years old.

Important Safety Warning

DO NOT Swim to Crab Island

It might look close, and the shallow water might seem inviting, but do not try to swim to Crab Island.

The area is surrounded by deep channels, strong tidal currents, and heavy boat traffic, especially on the east and west ends. The currents flowing through Destin Harbor can be deceptively powerful, making it easy to get swept away, even if you’re a strong swimmer.

It’s just not worth the risk. If you don’t have a boat, book a Crab Island Shuttle instead! It’s safe, affordable, and way more relaxing than fighting the current.

Crab Island Boat Rentals

Renting a boat is the best way to experience Crab Island, giving you the freedom to set your own schedule, bring your own food, and explore beyond the main sandbar.

There are other ways to get there, but a boat rental adds flexibility and comfort that shuttles or jet skis can’t offer. When we planned our trip, we weren’t sure what type of boat to rent or how long to book it for.

After researching options, we booked a double-decker pontoon with slides from PowerUp WaterSports in Fort Walton, and it was hands-down the best experience. The boat was in excellent condition, the staff was friendly, and we saved a significant amount by renting further from Destin. The 20-minute boat ride to Crab Island was a highlight—we even spotted dolphins on the way!

If you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly boat rental company, we highly recommend PowerUp WaterSports.

How Long Should I Rent a Boat for Crab Island?

Boats are usually rented in 4, 6, or 8-hour blocks. We chose the 4-hour rental thinking it would be plenty of time—but by the time we packed up, everyone wished we had more!

Next time, we’d book 6–8 hours, especially if we can find a rental that offers a lower hourly rate for longer bookings. With extra time, we could have:

• Docked at Dewey Destin’s Snowballs for a quick treat.
• Explored deeper waters beyond Crab Island for fishing or a private swim spot.
• Taken a self-guided dolphin tour around Destin Harbor.

Katie’s Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early before your scheduled rental time. PowerUp WaterSports had our boat ready early and let us take off ahead of schedule at no extra charge!

What Type of Boat Should I Rent for Crab Island?

When it comes to renting a boat for Crab Island, a pontoon boat is hands-down the most popular option—and for good reason!

Most visitors aren’t zooming around at high speeds once they arrive; they’re anchoring, lounging, and enjoying the water. A pontoon gives you plenty of space to spread out, store your gear, and make the most of your day.

We rented a double-decker pontoon with slides, and it was one of the best decisions we made!

I originally thought the slides were just for the kids, but nope—even the adults had a blast. Plus, the upper deck gave us extra shade, keeping us cool and protecting us from sunburn (a total win when you’re out in the Florida sun for hours).

Surprisingly, the double-decker was actually cheaper than some of the single-level pontoons! Since it could hold up to 13 people (compared to the 10-12 passenger limit on most single-level boats), splitting the cost with another family made it a super budget-friendly option.

If you’re debating between renting a pontoon or booking a guided tour, consider how much flexibility and comfort you want. We loved having control over our schedule, bringing our own food and drinks, and having a place to relax on the boat whenever we wanted.

If we were to do it again, I’d 100% book a double-decker pontoon every time. It gave us the perfect mix of fun, shade, space, and affordability—everything you need for an unforgettable Crab Island trip!

Katie’s Tip: Even if you don’t need the slides, compare pricing on double-decker vs. single-level pontoons. Sometimes, the larger boats offer better per-person rates, making them the smarter choice—especially for bigger groups!

Best Time to Visit Crab Island: When the Water is Clearest

If you want to experience Crab Island at its absolute best—think crystal-clear water and fewer crowds—timing your visit around the tides is key.

Why High Tide Matters for Water Clarity

The best time to visit Crab Island is during high tide, especially two hours before and two hours after peak high tide. Here’s why:

• Clear Gulf Water Flows In – During high tide, fresh, clear water from the Gulf of Mexico pushes into Choctawhatchee Bay, replacing murkier bay water.
• Better Visibility – The higher the tide, the cleaner and more vibrant the water looks—perfect for snorkeling and water activities.
• More Enjoyable Experience – If you visit at low tide, the water can be murkier and less appealing due to bay sediment.

Best Time of Day to Visit Crab Island

• Arrive early in the morning – The earlier, the better! The water is clearest in the morning, and you’ll beat the crowds.
• Avoid mid-afternoon rush – As the day goes on, more boats arrive, making the area busier and the water a little less pristine.
• Check the tide schedule in advance – Since high tide varies daily, check a Destin tide chart before planning your trip.

Want to find the best tide for your trip? You can track daily high tides using a Destin Tide Chart to plan ahead.

What’s the Best Season to Visit Crab Island?

• Spring & Early Summer (April – June): Warm temps, smaller crowds, and gorgeous clear water.
• Peak Summer (July – August): Great weather, but expect bigger crowds and higher boat rental prices.
• Early Fall (September – October): Fewer people, still warm enough to enjoy, but watch for tropical storms.
• Winter (November – March): Too chilly for swimming, but still great for boat tours and dolphin spotting.

Things to Do at Crab Island

Once you arrive at Crab Island, it’s time to dive into the fun! Whether you’re looking for thrill-seeking adventures, a fun day with friends, or the perfect Crab Island for families experience, there’s something for everyone.

Top Attractions & Water Activities

Kayak or Paddleboard to Explore the Bay

Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Crab Island’s shallow waters at your own pace. You can rent ahead of time or find vendors on the water.

• Best for: Adventurers who love paddling & scenic views.
• Katie’s Tip: Stick close to the shoreline to avoid boat wakes and strong currents.

Ride a Jet Ski for High-Speed Fun

If you love speed and adventure, renting a jet ski is an exhilarating way to experience Crab Island.

• Best for: Couples, friends, or thrill-seekers.
• Katie’s Tip: Check age requirements—some rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.

Sip Fresh Pineapple or Coconut Drinks

Nothing screams vacation vibes like drinking fresh juice straight from a pineapple or coconut! One of the best places to grab one is from Wild Destin, where they serve ice-cold, tropical drinks right on the water.

Grab a Bite from a Floating Food Vendor

No need to pack a full meal (unless you want to!)—Crab Island has plenty of floating food boats serving everything from burgers to fresh seafood. A local favorite is Reef Burger Destin, where you can enjoy a burger right on the water.

Dance on a Floating Platform or Ride the Mechanical Shark

If you’re up for some extra entertainment, Reef Burger also has a floating dance platform and a mechanical shark ride—perfect for some laughs and friendly competition.

What About the Inflatable Water Park?

When we visited, Treasure Chest Water Park was a huge hit with our group, featuring inflatable slides, trampolines, and obstacle courses floating right in the bay. You could purchase 1-hour, 2-hour, or all-day passes, making it a great option for families with kids, teens, and active groups.

2025 Update: According to Treasure Chest Water Park’s Facebook page, the park has closed since our visit, and it’s unclear if a new vendor has taken over.

If you’re hoping to find water park-style attractions at Crab Island, I recommend checking local listings or asking your boat rental company before your trip to see if any floating obstacle courses are available.

Katie’s Tip: Our group LOVED the inflatable water park, but we only booked an hour pass instead of all-day—and that was plenty! If you’re visiting with kids or teens, I’d recommend 1-2 hours tops. After that, they’ll be ready for food, swimming, or something different!

Free & Budget-Friendly Crab Island Activities

If you’re on a budget, don’t worry – there are still all kinds of free things to enjoy while visiting Crab Island. From looking to sea life, to active sports, to relaxing. Here are some of the ways we enjoys the crystal clear shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico:

• Float, soak in the sunshine, and listen to music on the boat. – Bring a tube or raft and just enjoy the view.
• Relax and read a book while enjoying the view
• Swim/walk in the shallow waters of the sand bar
• Toss a water Frisbee, volleyball, or football – Perfect for groups looking for active fun.
• Look for marine life – Spot crabs, hermit crabs, dolphins, turtles, and fish in the clear water.
  (but don’t touch the turtles, they’re protected)
• Shell hunting & exploring – Walk around the shallow areas and search for cool shells.
• Catch and release fish with a net or fish near the edges where the water is deeper (and away from people so no one gets caught on your hook or line)

Katie’s Tip: If you’re under 16 and over 65, no fishing license is necessary. For those over 16, you can purchase a license at many places. Read more about fishing license requirements.

What to Bring to Crab Island

Packing smart can make or break your Crab Island experience! Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or the whole day, having the right gear will keep you comfortable, prepared, and stress-free.

Cash & Payment Essentials

Many floating vendors only accept cash, so bringing a mix of cash and cards is the safest bet.

• Cash for floating vendors – Some take cards, but many don’t.
• Waterproof phone case – If you need to access Apple Pay, Venmo, or credit cards on your phone.
• ID & Boating License (if renting a boat)

Katie’s Tip: I assumed most vendors would take cards, but that wasn’t the case! Luckily, we had enough cash to grab drinks and snacks. I recommend bringing small bills for quick, easy transactions.

Safety & Water Gear

• Cell Phone Dry Bag – A waterproof phone case is a must-have at Crab Island! Even if your phone is water-resistant, salt water can corrode connections, causing permanent damage. Kevin learned this the hard way! His water-resistant phone got splashed while taking pictures, and he didn’t think much of it, until he plugged it in later and it never worked right again.
• Vinegar – Yes, there are jellyfish at Crab Island, and while most are harmless, we did see a few that could sting. A couple of people in our group ended up with minor stings, and we noticed others were asking around for vinegar.
• Personal Floating Devices – If you’re bringing kids or just want to float comfortably, pack life jackets or inflatable loungers.
• Snorkel Gear – The clear waters make for great snorkeling!

Katie’s Tip: Put white vinegar in a spray bottle to quickly and easily treat any jellyfish stings. We learned this tip from the ice cream guy at Gulf Stream Ice Cream when he offered his spray bottle to us. Rinse the affected area with vinegar for 30 seconds. Call 911 immediately if someone displays the signs of allergic reaction/anaphylaxis following a Jellyfish sting.

Sun Protection and Comfort

• Waterproof Sunscreen – Choose a reef-safe, water-resistant sunscreen and reapply often.
• Hats & Sunglasses – Bring a wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses to cut glare.
• Cover-Ups or Rashguards – Extra protection from the sun and a great way to stay cool.
• Beach Towels – You’ll want to dry off throughout the day and for sure at the end. Bring a large, thick towel. We bought a set from Costco years ago and always pack them in our luggage!
  

Entertainment & Fun on the Water

• Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker – A waterproof speaker is perfect for playing music while you relax.
• Water Games – Pack a water frisbee, paddle ball, or football for some fun in the water.
• GoPro or Waterproof Camera – If you want to capture underwater adventures, a waterproof GoPro is worth bringing! Our teens loved messing around with this.

Food & Drinks to Pack

Bringing your own food and drinks saves money and keeps you hydrated throughout the day.

• Plenty of Water – Hydro Flasks or insulated tumblers keep drinks cold all day. Try my One Ingredient Slushies for the kids in your group.
  
• Frozen Grapes – A refreshing snack that stays cold for hours! Here’s how to freeze grapes for the perfect on-the-go treat.
• Easy-to-Pack Snacks – Wraps, sandwiches, and homemade hummus make for great boat-friendly bites.
• Insulated Cooler – A must for keeping drinks and snacks cold in the Florida heat.

Katie’s Tip: One of the best things we packed? Frozen grapes. Not only were they refreshing, but they helped keep everything else in the cooler cold! I highly recommend bringing some if you visit on a hot day.

Keep Crab Island Clean: Pack a Trash Bag

Crab Island is a beautiful place, and keeping it clean helps preserve the experience for future visitors and protects marine life.

• Bring a trash container for snack wrappers and drink containers.
• Secure floaties & gear so they don’t drift away.
• Make sure your trash bag or bin is tied down so it doesn’t blow into the water—litter is harmful to all kinds of marine life!

Katie’s Tip: Our boat rental had a kitchen-sized trash can with a bag tied to the boat, which made it super easy for everyone to find and use. Cleanup at the end of the day was a breeze!

When you’re spending 4+ hours out on the water, someone is bound to get hungry! There is plenty of food available for purchase, but packing your own food is the best way to save money while ensuring you have plenty of refreshing options (or simply to supplement what you plan to buy).

The best boating snacks are things that are easy to prepare and easy to eat. I prefer to pack finger foods rather than items that need utensils to eat. Here are some easy-to-pack ideas:

• Cool Drinks in Insulated Tumblers – Hydro Flasks and insulated wine tumblers keep beverages ice-cold all day.
• Frozen Grapes – They stay cold for hours! Here’s how to freeze grapes for a perfect on-the-go snack.
• Hummus & Veggies – Try this roasted red pepper hummus with sliced cucumbers & carrots.
• Wraps & Sandwiches – Portable and mess-free! We love these chipotle chicken & veggie wraps and these chicken salad wraps.
• Salty & Crunchy Snacks – Sweet & spicy rosemary bar nuts or a bag of trail mix work great.

Katie’s Tip: Packing our own food saved us a ton of money, and the frozen grapes were great for keeping cool in the heat! If you’re bringing a cooler, bring a few frozen water bottles instead of loose ice—they’ll keep everything cold and double as a refreshing drink later.

Grab a Bite from Floating Food Vendors

If you’d rather buy food on the water, Crab Island has floating food boats serving everything from burgers to fresh seafood.

• Fresh Pineapple or Coconut Drinks – Visit Wild Destin for fresh-cut pineapple & coconut drinks served right on the water.
• Burgers & Fries – Reef Burger Destin is a favorite for classic burgers, fries, and cold drinks.
• Ice Cream & Sweet Treats – Cool down with a ice cream from Gulf Stream Ice Cream.

Katie’s Tip: The tween and teen girls in our group were absolutely obsessed with their treats from Wild Destin and had so much fun posing for selfies with their coconuts and pineapples.

Mistakes to Avoid & Lessons We Learned

Every trip teaches you something, and our first visit to Destin in 2018 was no exception. That year, we didn’t make it to Crab Island at all—something we regretted and knew we had to fix next time.

If you’re planning your first visit, here are a few lessons we learned the hard way so you can have the best experience possible!

Not Researching & Planning Ahead

Destin quickly became our favorite beach destination, and in 2018, we were so excited just to relax on the beach, enjoy the water, and soak in the Emerald Coast.

But here’s the thing: we didn’t research anything about Crab Island ahead of time.

We assumed it was something we could just decide to do once we got there—but by the time we started looking into boat rentals and checking the forecast, we realized it wasn’t going to work out. The weather was unpredictable, and since we hadn’t planned anything in advance, it was too late to make it happen.

Katie’s Tip: If Crab Island is on your bucket list, start researching early! Look into boat rentals, tide schedules, and weather forecasts before your trip so you’re not scrambling last minute.

Booking a Boat Rental Too Late

Since we hadn’t done any research in advance, we also hadn’t booked a boat rental.

Once we realized we’d need one to get to Crab Island, we checked availability—but since we were already in Destin, everything was either booked up or much more expensive than if we had reserved ahead of time.

When we returned to Destin the next year, we booked two boat rental days—Friday and Sunday—so we had a backup plan if the weather didn’t cooperate.

We knew ahead of time that the place we rented from only required 24-hour notice for cancellations, which made this strategy totally doable. Once we saw that Friday’s weather was perfect, we canceled Sunday’s rental with no penalty.

Katie’s Tip: Florida weather is unpredictable! Book your boat rental at least a week ahead, especially if you’re visiting during peak season. If possible, reserve two days and cancel one based on the forecast. Some companies allow free cancellations within 24 hours, making it easier to secure multiple days and adjust based on the forecast.

Not Having a Backup Plan for Bad Weather

That first trip, the weather was all over the place. It was pouring rain when we arrived, and while we had some clear days, there were also pop-up showers almost every afternoon.

Since we didn’t have a plan in place, we missed our chance to visit Crab Island entirely.

The next year, we planned differently. By booking two potential boat days instead of just one, we gave ourselves flexibility—if the weather was bad one day, we still had another chance to go.

• Lesson Learned: Florida weather is unpredictable! If you’re visiting during the summer months, have a flexible plan so you don’t miss out due to unexpected storms.

Katie’s Tip: If I could go back and redo that first trip, I’d plan ahead, book a boat early, and check the tides before we arrived. Crab Island is 100% worth visiting, but it’s not something you can just decide to do last-minute. A little prep work makes all the difference!

What NOT to Bring

Crab Island has a strict no-glass policy, so leave the glass bottles and containers at home.

• Use plastic or insulated cups instead of glass.
• Bring reusable water bottles to cut down on waste.

Crab Island FAQs

Still have questions about visiting Crab Island in Destin, Florida? I’ve covered the most common ones below, but if there’s something I missed, leave me a comment and I’ll be happy to help!

Have you been to Crab Island Destin Florida? I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your favorite tips and must-know advice in the comments.

Can You Drive to Crab Island?

No—Crab Island is only accessible by water. You’ll need to rent a boat, take a shuttle, or use a kayak or jet ski to get there.

Can You Swim to Crab Island?

Absolutely not. The currents around Crab Island are strong and dangerous, and the area has heavy boat traffic. Even if the water looks shallow, swimming from shore is extremely risky.

How Deep is the Water at Crab Island?

Most of Crab Island is 1 to 4 feet deep, depending on the tide. However, the areas surrounding it have deep channels, which is why it’s important to stay within the sandbar.

What’s the Best Time of Day to Visit Crab Island?

The best time to visit is in the morning, during high tide. The water is clearest two hours before and after peak high tide, and arriving early helps you beat the afternoon crowds.

When is the Best Season to Visit Crab Island?

• Spring & Early Summer (April – June): Warm temps, smaller crowds, and gorgeous clear water.
• Peak Summer (July – August): Great weather, but expect bigger crowds and higher boat rental prices.
• Early Fall (September – October): Fewer people, still warm enough to enjoy, but watch for tropical storms.
• Winter (November – March): Too chilly for swimming, but still great for boat tours and dolphin spotting.

Do You Have to Pay to Go to Crab Island?

There’s no entry fee, but since it’s only accessible by water, you’ll need to rent a boat, take a shuttle, or bring your own watercraft. Some activities, like floating water parks or food vendors, do charge fees.

Can You Drink Alcohol at Crab Island?

Alcohol sales are banned at Crab Island, meaning you can’t buy alcoholic drinks from vendors. However, you are allowed to bring your own as long as you follow local laws and drink responsibly.

Do Vendors at Crab Island Take Credit Cards?

Some do, but many floating vendors only accept cash. It’s a good idea to bring a mix of both.

Are There Bathrooms at Crab Island?

No—there are no public restrooms on Crab Island, so it’s important to plan ahead.

• If you’re renting a boat, check if it has a small onboard bathroom (some larger pontoons do).
• If you need facilities during your trip, you can boat over to the Destin Harbor, where many restaurants allow customers to use their restrooms.
• Before heading out, it’s a good idea to use the facilities at your boat rental location or any nearby marina.

Special Events on Crab Island

Keep an eye out for special events happening at Crab Island during your trip!

When we visited, it happened to be Shark Week, and we saw an ad for Shark Week Movie Night at Crab Island. They set up a huge Splashboard screen on a boat and played a shark movie from the water.

Unfortunately, the timing didn’t work out for us, but how cool would it be to watch a shark moving during shark week at Crab Island?

Katie’s Tip: Before your visit, make sure to check local listings to see if there are any special events going on.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Crab Island

Crab Island is truly one of the most unique experiences on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Whether you’re planning a relaxing day on the water, an adventure-packed outing with family and friends, or hoping to catch a fun local event, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

With the right planning—securing a boat rental, checking the tide schedule, and packing the essentials—you’ll be set for an unforgettable trip!